Romania have started slowly in both of their World Cup fixtures so far, trailing to both Argentina and Scotland at half-time. Photograph: Lynne Cameron/PA

1. Slow starters

In both their games the Mighty Oaks have started like sluggish acorns. Scotland led 18-11 at half-time and Argentina were 26-8 up at the interval. England will fancy continuing that trend and ensuring Romania's forwards are not allowed to ease their way into the contest. Romania's coach, Romeo Gontineac, will be urging his team to show more aggression from the outset.

2. Forward strength

If they get a sniff, the Romanian forwards can maul with the best of them. They got few opportunities against Argentina but Scotland were repeatedly driven backwards. The Romanians are also a decent scrummaging unit and had one particularly good scrum atthe Pumas' expense, always a decent achievement. It would be a mistake for England to get drawn into a slow, tight arm-wrestle.

3. Defensive holes

Bonus points could be absolutely vital in Pool B. Scotland and Argentina have put four tries past the Romanians and England may have more joy if they go hunting in wider channels. The Pumas broke the line repeatedly in the first half, exploiting a relative lack of pace and defensive organisation in front of them. The Oaks did tighten up in the second half, but the damage had already been done. They are significantly tougher nuts to crack around the fringes.